Corrections - Electrolytes

Question 1

Management of severe hypokalaemia (<2.5 mmol/l or symptomatic)?

Answer 1

IV replacement –> infusion rate should NOT exceed 20 mmol/hr.

E.g. 3 bags of 0.9% saline with 40mmol KCl per bag over 24 hours.

Question 2

Which electroylte deficiency can cause hypokalaemia?

Answer 2

Magnesium deficiency may cause hypokalaemia.

Question 3

What is the management of a patient presenting with both hypokalaemia and hypomagnesaemia?

Answer 3

Correct magnesium BEFORE correcting potassium (as hypomagnesemia prevents potassium absorption).

Give oral magnesium aspartate and reassess bloods in 2 weeks.

Question 4

Symptoms of hypokalaemia?

Answer 4

muscle weakness, hypotonia

Question 5

What toxicity does hypokalaemia predispose patients to?

Answer 5

Digoxin toxicity

Question 6

ECG findings in hypokalaemia?

Answer 6

1) T wave inversion, or small or absent T waves
2) Prominent U waves
3) Prolonged PR interval
4) ST depression

Question 7

Management of hypovolaemic hyponatraemia?

Answer 7

IV isotonic saline

Question 8

What is calcium resonium also known as?

Answer 8

Calcium polystyrene sulphonate

Question 9

How can a blood transfusion affect potassium levels?

Answer 9

Can cause HYPERkalaemia due to cell lysis.

Question 10

What is the classical cause of digoxin toxicity?

Answer 10

Hypokalaemia